New Orleans Saints vs. Houston Texans: What to watch

What to watch in the New Orleans Saints home exhibition game against the Houston Texans tonight at the Superdome.

Michael DeMocker/The Times-PicayuneNew Orleans Saints left tackle Jermon Bushrod will have his hands full tonight against Houston Texans defensive end Mario Williams.

FIRST QUARTER

There has been little mention in camp of left tackle Jermon Bushrod, who is entering his second season as the starter. For a player responsible for protecting the blind side of Super Bowl MVP Drew Brees, that should be considered a good sign. But look for Bushrod to have his hands full tonight as he battles Texans right end Mario Williams, one of the league's best players.

SECOND QUARTER

With Saints Coach Sean Payton expected to play his starters into the second quarter, it will be interesting to see how Scott Shanle responds to his new position of strongside linebacker after spending much of his career on the weak side. So far Shanle, a wily veteran, has handled the move well. And if he can hold up against the Texans, it will give the Saints their best chance of getting their best 11 defensive players on the field.

THIRD QUARTER

As more and more of the reserves take over, quarterback Patrick Ramsey, who appears to be tightening his hold on the backup quarterback spot behind Brees, will get some more live action while trying to master Payton's elaborate offense. Ramsey showed promise against the Patriots, but it will be interesting to see how he reacts after having some early success. Expect him to play much of the third before giving way to Chase Daniel.

FOURTH QUARTER

After serving as the star of last year's preseason, receiver and return specialist Rod Harper has been an afterthought. A foot injury cost him nearly his entire first season with the Saints, and a hip injury sidelined him in last week's loss to the Patriots. Now healthy, Harper has his work cut out for him if he's going to beat the odds again and make this team. He's in a battle with Courtney Roby and Adrian Arrington, one of the bright spots against the Patriots, for the No. 5 receiver position.